I need to remind myself of that, often–‘keep it simple’, I mean. For whatever reason, my natural inclination seems to be to complicate things.

For instance, my morning devotional program. This time is vital to me, on every level. The problem? There are SO MANY good devotionals out there–I ended up with a stack of books nearly two feet high. Between traveling and being sick, I fell behind, and then I wasn’t showing up for devotions at all. Not good. Nothing sends me spiraling into depression faster than missing my prayer and meditation time. You’d think I’d learn, wouldn’t you? Anyway, the solution turned out to be a matter of cutting back. Now, I have exactly three books, the Bible, a copy of the classic “Jesus Calling”, and a journal, because I can focus better when I write my prayers, and focus is a big challenge for me, given my medicated but still powerful case of ADD. The point of devotions, for me at least, is to be quiet in God’s Presence. Just to be with Him.

This is a lesson I need to learn over and over (and over) again, it seems. I guess that must be why we’re here, though. And God is so patient with me. Whenever I come crawling back home from the Far Country, He orders up the fatted calf and the party to celebrate my return to the fold. It’s difficult to fathom that kind of love.

On to more mundane matters. I’m writing today–got off to a great start (finally) yesterday. I kept rewriting the first half of the first chapter, and each time, I felt something was missing. Now, at last, I’ve gotten it right.

Our favorite teacher winner, by the way, is Sarah Stanley.

It only seems right to mention some of MY favorite teachers–it would be impossible to name just one. For such a tiny town, Northport attracted some amazingly perceptive, committed and kind people–L.K. Mihalovich, you are a legend. (Yes, I still have the gift for b.s., but I MEAN it!) Mrs. Styrker, you kept an unruly tribe of 7th and 8th graders in line, year after year. Crystal Harworth and Bob Hyatt, I wouldn’t be a writer today if it hadn’t been for you. (Mr. Hyatt told me I had the potential to be a writer when I was only ten, and the idea stuck. Mrs. Harworth taught me HOW to write, how to hear the sweet, silent music words make.)

Next week’s question? If you were stranded on a desert island, what is the ONE THING you would bring with you?

Make it a good day, and trust, trust, trust.

We’re going to make it through, gang. All we have to do is stick together and keep going!

30 comments to “K.I.S.,S.”

I would bring all my favorite photos of the people and animals I love and have loved. They are the first thing I would rescue in case of a fire or flood as well. And if I could bring two things (pretty please?), I would bring my beloved Yorkie, Maggie. She is my heart.

I have given that question some thought over the years and have concluded, that I would take to the island the complete MITFORD SERIES by Jan Karon. Fr Tim is a favorite character and I learned so much from him, plus there is great humor and the Great Lessons of God Teachings. marie

I think most people will probably say the same thing, but the one thing I would bring is a GOOD BOOK. I enjoy reading so much but don’t always have the time so I now make sure I read for at least 1/2 an hour a day.

Thanks for sharing how you have time with God esp how He’s always there waiting. That is a very comforting thought for one who feels uncomfortable when fellow church members talk about their silent time (hours vs my quick little prayers)

the one thing to bring to a deserted island …
I sure hope you’re planning to have that island in the tropics
Well, since my colleaege John has just retired (he was our facility/ housing / security chief) it seems I have to bring a multi tool (the swiss army knife without the corkscrew )

On a deserted island, hmmm, the man of my dreams, but since I don’t know one, I’ll take my animals :). Never lonely with them around! I get sooo much out of Jesus Calling, too, that would be a must if I were stranded alone. We all get off track at times, & He is right there to get us back on
Blessings,
SherryNan

That is a hard question, i guess water, you can’t live with out that and i would want my bible. I guess the answer is water, because you can pray to God an remember the scriptures that you have learned and keep in touch with God daily that should subsist.
Linda, have you ever read “Where God Finds You” it has 40 devotion in it. It is really good to go along with your bible. I am really glad that you are able to start writing again. God bless you and you everyone on here have a great day.
As always your friend
Norma Stanforth

Keeping it simple and remembering what motivates us spiritually as well as physically is a motto to live by for all of us. We get so wrapped up in our everyday busy lives that we ironically forget what centers us. It always warms my heart to read/see where someone that I admire and am such a fanof as an author has such devout spirituality and love of God.

Random observation…I am reading Princess Annie right now (for some reason I read this series out of sequence: read Taming Charlotte 2 years ago; Yankee Wife 2 weeks ago and now Princess Annie) and I marvel at how authentic your voice is in these different books! Whether it’s 1800’s European prose, cowboys in Texas or Arizona 100 years ago or present day Montana, the voice is always authentic.

Thank you for the question about teachers and giving credit to ones that have inspired and influenced your life! I taught for years and am a school administrator now and as much I admire and value my colleagues, the list would be endless of those who have impacted my life! Probably would start with my dad and mom.

Back to the blog at hand…I would bring a picture of my husband and kids, marking a page in my favorite book. Is that cheating? :)))

You were writing about me–becoming so distracted that I lose focus and “forget” all my good intentions to stick to a devotional commitment. Thank goodness God loves me anyway, & forgives me over & over again.
Saying you kept re-writing the first half of chapter one made me smile. I told students over & over: FINISH your first draft, even if it SUCKS!!! (With seniors I could say that & not get in trouble!) That is why we revise/re-write. We can’t revise what isn’t there. For inexperienced writers, re-writing/revising the first paragraph/page, trying for absolute perfection, may mean never finishing. And, as a successful author, you know there is such a thing as–oops–a REAL deadline!

The Bible. It has all the life lessons you will need. The guidance of the Lord and reason for prayer are all through the book.

I have been reading the book “Learn The Bible in 24 Hours” by Dr. Chuck Missler. I have not gotten very far but I have been trying to absorb as much of the information as possible. It is also raising some interesting questions.

Linda, I have really enjoyed the blog as I sometimes dont make time to read my devotional everyday it always lifts me up to read the blog and it is as though i get inspiration and encouragment through your words so Thank You. If I was stranded on a desert island would bring the BIBLE. With the Word and Bread of Life i wouldn’t have the faith and will power to continue on. It states He is our ROCK, SWORD, and SHIELD. In HIM will I TAKE REFUGE. I pray everyone has a wonderful and Blessed Easter. What a wonderful Holiday to reflect the Most Importance of Sacrifice. That our God gave his life to forgive us of our sins so that we could be saved.

My Toshiba Tablet – I have about 400 books on it as well as some games, not the least of which is a bible and some bible study books and I’d also be able to send out a message – hopefully. If not, I could possibly send a flash of sunlight into the sky to signal some passing ship or plane. Hopefully this desert island will have things that are edible and water to drink….lol If not, then I’m in big trouble.